Formal planning permission is now being sought for ambitious plans to build a £650,000 Victorian pavilion in the centre of Callander.

Local man Tom Jones has submitted an application to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park’s planning authority for the structure, which would be located in Ancaster Square.

He says that the idea came about after a number of events held there, including Winterfest, were adversely impacted by wet weather.

And the pavilion’s proposed glass roof, which would be supported by iron pillars, would ensure protection from the elements.

The design also includes a built-in audio system, WIFI, LED floodlights, drainage seating, litter bins and a dance floor among other features.

If the plans come to fruition the steps to St Kessog’s Church would be restored and Ancaster Square would need to be levelled and resurfaced to make room for the structure.

Mr Jones, who is the chairman of the Callander branch of the Royal British Legion, revealed during a meeting of Callander Community Council this week that he had formally submitted his application and was expecting to hear back in the next three to four weeks.

Callander Community Council, who also previously submitted plans for a cover to be erected at the space, have now withdrawn their application in light of the plans being “superseded by other ideas”.

Mr Jones said: “This allows the people of Callander to focus on the one proposal. I’ve submitted a 40-page dossier to the national park planning with reports from a structural engineer.

Tom Jones has drafted the proposal to build the pavilion in Ancaster Square.

“This has been 11 months worth of work.

“The feedback from the public has largely been very good. A few people have raised concerns about the loss of trees and the visual impact on the church, and I fully understand and appreciate this, but we have had no technical issues.

“This is something we’re trying to do for the good of Callander.”

Mr Jones, who also runs the town’s Highland Guest House, says he has currently secured funding for around half of the amount needed, but is reluctant to reveal the source of the funding until permission has been granted.

The Observer previously reported that the plans were unveiled at a public open day in October.

Mr Jones said: “I first thought about a cover for Ancaster Square when I moved to Callander seven years ago.

“I play in Callander Brass and our concerts are often interrupted or cancelled because of the weather.

“The same is true for performances from Callander Pipe Band.”

He added: “The list of possible uses for the proposed pavilion are numerous, as are the benefits to many organisations and individuals within the community, and day-to-day visitors and tourists alike.”

Mr Jones says that should the proposal be given the green light a new committee would be formed to take the plan forward.